More than 120 geosynthetics professionals gathered at Xinjiang Agricultural University in Urumqi, China, from July 12–14, 2026, for the 12th China Symposium on Geosynthetics Testing Technology, with IGS Treasurer Professor Jie Han joining the event to deliver an opening address and invited lecture.

Hosted by the Test & Detection Specialized Committee of the China Technical Association on Geosynthetics (CTAG), affiliated with the Chinese Chapter of the International Geosynthetics Society (CCIGS), the symposium brought together experts, researchers, industry professionals, and students for three days of technical exchange.

IGS Treasurer Jie Han Addresses Delegates

Professor Jie Han, IGS Treasurer and Professor at the University of Kansas, delivered an opening address on behalf of the IGS.

During his address, Professor Han shared insights into the latest developments and trends within the global geosynthetics industry. He also reflected on the progress and technological advances made within China's geosynthetics engineering sector in recent years and recognized the contributions of professionals across the industry.

Professor Han also highlighted the important role of the Test & Detection Specialized Committee in supporting the advancement of geosynthetics testing and inspection technologies in China.

As a distinguished invited expert, Professor Han delivered a technical lecture titled “Testing and Evaluation of Geosynthetics and Their Interactions with Fill Materials.”

His presentation explored key testing methods and evaluation approaches for understanding interactions between geosynthetics and fill materials, providing valuable insights for the selection of design parameters under complex engineering conditions.

A Wide-Ranging Technical Program

The symposium featured a comprehensive academic program comprising 10 specialist presentations, 14 thematic presentations, and 11 graduate student presentations.

Topics covered key areas across geosynthetics testing and application, including testing methodologies, standards and testing systems, anti-seepage durability, engineering applications, and intelligent testing equipment.

Invited presentations explored a wide range of specialist topics, including reinforced soil slopes, geogrid–soil interaction, reinforced soil structures under challenging environmental conditions, geosynthetics testing standards, bentonite-based barrier layers, geomembrane performance and testing, and anti-seepage technologies.

The program demonstrated the breadth of research and technical development currently taking place within China's geosynthetics community while providing opportunities for knowledge exchange between researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals.

Supporting the Development of Geosynthetics Testing

Established in 2008, the CTAG/CCIGS Test & Detection Specialized Committee now has 52 members and provides a professional platform dedicated to advancing geosynthetics testing and inspection technologies across China.

Events such as the China Symposium on Geosynthetics Testing Technology provide valuable opportunities to share technical knowledge, strengthen connections between the national and international geosynthetics communities, and support the continued advancement of geosynthetics research and engineering practice.

Mandarin speakers can learn more about geosynthetics activities in China through the CTAG website.

Scroll down to view photos from the conference.